Sugar Land Man Held in Custody Pending Trial for Child Pornography

A Sugar Land, Texas man is in federal custody while he awaits trial on charges of child pornography. Glenn Casey Portwood, 52, is believed to be a danger to the community, and was ordered to remain in custody by U.S. Magistrate Judge Frances Stacy. Portwood has been charged with possession of child pornography and attempting to distribute child pornography, according to news reports.

Portwood’s home was searched in September of 2012 after officers obtained a search warrant. An FBI press release indicated that Portwood’s computer was sharing pornographic files. Authorities obtained the search warrant to search the suspect’s home and subsequently found photos and videos of child pornography on several CDs and an external hard drive, all of which were in his vehicle. The materials were confiscated.

Federal agents testified that in the videos and images, children were engaging in sex and being raped; some of the children depicted in the graphic images were toddlers and babies, according to the FBI. Court documents indicate that the defendant has a long history of criminal charges related to sex offenses, dating back to 2001. He also lives in an environment giving him access to young children. For these reasons, Judge Stacy ordered that Portwood be held in federal custody until his May 19th trial.

Some of the images found on CDs in a backpack in Portwood’s trunk depicted adult pornography involving women who appeared to be drugged or sleeping. An external hard drive allegedly contained 1,300 videos depicting child pornography, and about 50,000 images of child porn. There were also hundreds of images and approximately 70 videos on two laptops found in Portwood’s trunk.

If found guilty of the charges, Portwood faces up to 20 years in prison; he may also be fined up to $250,000.

In the state of Michigan, individuals who are convicted of possessing child pornographic materials will face fines of up to $10,000 and up to four years in prison. Distributing child porn will leave the defendant facing up to seven years in prison along with fines of up to $50,000 if convicted.

Individuals who are being investigated for child sexually abusive activity or who have been arrested or charged must consult with a highly skilled Michigan sex crime defense attorney. A conviction will not only result in harsh criminal penalties, it will tarnish your reputation and likely end your career. Individuals convicted of these types of crimes are also required to register on Michigan’s sex offender registry. A talented defense lawyer will work to secure positive results, helping you avoid life-changing consequences.